Significance of Celestial food
Celestial food, as interpreted in Mahayana, includes exquisite offerings made by Devarajas to the Buddha, which he did not find remarkable, and divine nourishment brought from the heavens. In Theravada, celestial food involves divine offerings from naga kings to the Buddha, as well as nourishment provided to petas to ease their suffering during merit-sharing. Overall, celestial food symbolizes divine sustenance linked to respect, worship, and virtuous actions within the Buddhist tradition.
Synonyms: Heavenly food, Divine food, Spiritual food, Ambrosia, Nectar, Divine sustenance
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Celestial food'
In Buddhism, Celestial food symbolizes divine nourishment and offerings from heavenly beings, reflecting respect and compassion. It highlights the spiritual significance of these gifts, the Buddha's perception of their worth, and their role in alleviating suffering.
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) Divine offerings made by naga kings to the Buddha, demonstrating respect and worship.[1] (2) Divine nourishment provided to the petas during the merit-sharing event, which alleviated their suffering.[2]
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) Food from the heavens bestowed upon the Great Being as a result of his good deeds.[3]
From: Mahavamsa
(1) Divine nourishment provided to the Buddha and his followers during their interactions with the naga-king.[4]
From: Abhidhamma in Daily Life (by Ashin Janakabhivamsa)
(1) Food consumed by Devas that does not produce excreta, differing from human physical needs.[5]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) Exquisite offerings presented to the Buddha by devarajas, which he did not perceive as special.[6] (2) Divine nourishment that Devadatta brought back for Ajatashatru from the Trayastrimsas heaven.[7] (3) Exquisite offerings made by the Devarajas to the Buddha, which he did not consider exquisite.[8]
From: Apadana commentary (Atthakatha)
(1) An exceedingly well-finished meal that resembled divine or heavenly food.[9]